Franchise bidders respond

I reported Tuesday that several local charities are concerned about the New York Racing Association losing their franchise over Saratoga, Belmont and Aqueduct, because it could mean the end of sweet deals for the non-profits at Saratoga Race Course.
Since then, two franchise bidders have said they intend to honor traditions at the 139-year-old oval.
Alan Alcon of Empire Racing Associates said that Empire will actually reverse the NYRA policy of charging for the use of Saratoga Race Course, and will waive the fees for non-profit
organizations that hold fund raising events there.
Scott Gastel of Capital Play said the outfit recently outlined its proposal for the tracks at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, including a $50 million investment in Saratoga Race Course. Karl O’Farrell, the CEO of Capital Play, said he would not make any changes to the track without
seeking input from the community. “Capital Play values the great traditions at Saratoga. We want to be custodians for the community and the state and not change the elements that are working well,” O’Farrell said.